Give Bird Watchers the Gift of Knowledge
Cornell Lab of Ornithology educational resources last a lifetimeIthaca, N.Y.–It’s hard to find the perfect gift for a bird watcher who already has three pairs of binoculars, umpteen field guides, and closet full of field gear. How about the gift of knowledge? You don’t have to worry about getting the right size or color and it’s something they will never outgrow.
The gift suggestions below have another advantage: a portion of each purchase goes back into the research, education, and conservation work done by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. The ideas shown here, and others, are available on the Cornell Lab holiday gifts page.
Handbook of Bird Biology
The new third edition of the Handbook of Bird Biology provides expanded and updated university-level information about birds along with more than 800 full-color illustrations. It’s a great stand-alone reference. Anyone wishing to plunge more deeply into the subject can take the newly revised self-paced course in bird biology offered by the Cornell Lab which requires this text. The textbook is $135 ($121.50 for Lab members) and is available from the Lab’s secure eStore or from Wild Birds Unlimited at Sapsucker Woods where Lab members also get a 10% discount. Find out more about the self-paced course.
Bird Coloring Books & More
What could be more relaxing than coloring beautiful birds? The Cornell Lab Publishing Group has several to offer, such as America’s Favorite Birds: 40 Beautiful Birds to Color. Information about each species is provided. Other titles include the popular Backyard Birdsong guides by Donald Kroodsma that come with a built-in player so readers can learn the sounds of birds. An assortment of books for children will get the young birder off to a good start. Books may be purchased through the Cornell Lab Publishing Group with select titles sold by Wild Birds Unlimited at Sapsucker Woods where Lab members also get a 10% discount.
Waterfowl ID Foldout Guides
For the footloose bird watcher, having handy (waterproof!) information they can pack in a pocket is ideal. This series of three ID guides from the Cornell Lab will take much of the mystery out of identifying waterfowl. Each costs $7.95. Get free shipping with purchase of all three from Wild Birds Unlimited at Sapsucker Woods. Lab members get a 10% discount.
Cornell Lab Membership
Getting someone a gift membership to the Cornell Lab means you’re giving them anytime access to a wealth of information about birds. Benefits of membership include the award-winning Living Bird magazine and discounts on projects and courses, plus the latest birding news and discoveries in a monthly eNewsletter. Supporter level memberships begin at $44 per year. New members receive the Lab’s 2017 bird calendar. Purchase a gift membership by Friday, November 18, for delivery in time for the holiday. The gift recipient will receive a postcard in the mail notifying them of the membership with a personalized note from you. Get Lab membership for a friend or yourself! You can also call 866-989-2473, toll-free (8:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m., M-F).
